When it comes to checklists and wedding to-dos, most lists are geared towards the bride. They remind ladies when to ask their girls to be their maids and when to buy their dress.
Occasionally lost in the shuffle can be the groom. It can be easy to assume the groom just “shows up” on the Big Day, but that’s not always the case.
When it comes to Mr. Groom, he too has a list of duties before saying “I Do.”
10-12 Months
__ You’re engaged! Make sure you celebrate with your fiancé, friends and family.
__ Nail down the basics with your fiancé.
Where are you getting married? Book a church and your venue.
What’s the wedding date?
Who’s paying for what?
What is your budget?
__ Based on your budget, start planning your guest list
__ Alert the groomsmen. Maybe gift a cigar from the Cigar Factory in the CBD.
__ Choose a best man.
6-9 Months
__ Make sure you and your honey have registered for gifts.
__ Start planning your honeymoon.
__ If you’re the more organized partner, take these months to organize and assemble your vendors. (DJ/band, cake tastings, food menus, florist, photographer, car rentals etc.) If you are not the more organized one, remember to still voice an opinion and be present at all meetings.
__ Begin the discussion of and lock down some details of the rehearsal dinner. (Typically, the grooms’ parents will pay for the rehearsal dinner.)
3-5 Months
__ Purchase wedding bands.
__ Finalize rehearsal dinner details.
__ Decide on attire for yourself, best man, groomsmen and fathers of the couple.
__ Plan and book night of hotel accommodations.
2-3 Months
__ Make sure invitations have been sent. (And confirm with family and friends that they are being received.)
__ Buy groomsmen gifts. As well as small tokens of appreciation for ushers, junior groomsmen, fathers, or anyone else associated with the wedding.
__ If needed, get alterations finalized for your tux or suit.
__ Confirm all groomsmen, ushers, fathers, etc. have gotten or booked alterations to be done on their attire.
1 Month
__ Obtain your marriage license. (Head to the Orleans Parish Marriage License Office in Benson Tower (1450 Poydras St., Suite 407) for your marriage certificate. The office is
open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Visit dhh.louisiana.gov for requirements.)
__ Set up your second line. If you’re planning to second line at your wedding, you’re going to need a permit. Call the New Orleans Police Department Special Events Section at 658-7100 to schedule everything 15 to 20 days before your wedding day. You can also email questions to specialevents@nola.gov.
__ Ensure transportation is set.
__ Celebrate bachelor party, if not already done.
__ Final tux/suit fitting.
__ Begin writing your vows. (If the occasion calls for personalized vows.)
__ Practice speech for rehearsal dinner. (If the occasion calls for a rehearsal speech.)
__ Double check you and your honey have purchased all wedding party favors. (Don’t forget a little something special for your parents.)
__ Get your song list to the band or DJ. (This can always be a fun date night activity.)
__ Treat yourself to a facial or spa day.
1 Week
__ Get your hair cut.
__ Get a manicure. (At least a trim and shape.)
__ Pick up formalwear. (Make sure your bridal party has done so as well.)
__ Remind friends and family of their responsibilities. Assign duties to your wedding party or other loved ones. Who is the contact for the photographer? Who is making sure all guests get a favor?
__ Double check with your vendors. Touch base with everyone one more time to remind them where to go and to answer any last-minute questions they might have.
__ If necessary for you and your fiancé, divvy out the appropriate tips for vendors.
__ Pack for honeymoon.
__ Pack for whatever you will need the day of the wedding and that night. (Hair products, Deodorant, Toothbrush, Tie or Bow Tie, Cummerbund or belt, Vest, Coat or jacket, Cuff links and studs, Dress shirt, Watch, Trousers, Undershirt, Underwear, Socks, Shoes, etc.)
The Big Day
__ Shower.
__ Shave.
__ Remember the rings.
__ Eat a good breakfast.
__ Make sure to include your parents in the day.
__ Get Married!
So whether you’re laissez faire or all hands on deck, make sure you (or your groom) has their to-do list knocked out before walking down the aisle.
